Global Tech Organization to Hold Annual Conference in Downtown Phoenix

PHOENIX – Silicon Valley-based non-profit Girls in Tech announced that it will hold its annual Catalyst Conference in downtown Phoenix for the first time Sun., April 26 through Tues., April 28 at the Hotel Palomar.

“We’re more than excited to host this premiere tech conference in Downtown,” said Mayor Greg Stanton. “Women at the forefront of the technology and start-up industry will have an opportunity to experience first hand Phoenix’s rapidly growing entrepreneurial ecosystem and innovative community.”

Girls in Tech is a global non-profit focused on the engagement, education and empowerment of influential women in technology and entrepreneurship. The organization offers initiatives and curriculums for women and girls including mentorship programs, business pitch competitions, online education and more.

Founder and CEO Adriana Gascoigne met with Stanton, as well as downtown and economic development experts, in January to discuss the conference opportunity.

“There’s excitement and energy buzzing in downtown Phoenix, and Catalyst attendees are going to feel that” said Gascoigne. “Amazing things can happen when one woman helps another – and together we’re going pave the path for future industry leaders.”

The Catalyst Conference will offer participants a chance to hear from more than 60 notable female speakers – including presidents, CEOs, entrepreneurs, bloggers, and leaders in the tech industry and STEM fields. Attendees will also have access to a broad selection of workshops, panels and hands-on resources to help advance women in technology careers.

Heidi Jannenga, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Phoenix-based software company WebPT, will speak at the conference about her experience leading one of the fastest-growing software companies in the nation.

“This conference is critical – not only to Phoenix's burgeoning tech scene, but also to the growing number of women pursing careers in technology,” Jannenga said. “Innovation at its finest can only occur when all great minds are involved. Thus, it behooves everyone to attend this conference and support Girls in Tech.”

Information about the Catalyst Conference, including registration details can be found online at http://catalyst.girlsintech.org/.

WHAT: Girls in Tech Catalyst Conference WHEN: Sun., April 26 through Tues., April 28 WHERE: Hotel Palomar Phoenix CityScape 2 E. Jefferson St. WHO: Mayor Greg Stanton Adriana Gascoigne, Founder and CEO, Girls in Tech Kate Brodock, President, Girls in Tech Heidi Jannenga, Co-Founder and COO, WebPT More than 60 guest speakers (full list: http://catalyst.girlsintech.org/our-speakers/) Expected more than 400 participants